THE candidates in Scottish Labour's leadership contest reveal how they would tackle Alex Salmond in exclusive Daily Record podcasts online from today.

THE candidates in Scottish Labour's leadership contest reveal how they would tackle Alex Salmond in exclusive Daily Record podcasts.

Here's a taste of what MSPs Johann Lamont and Ken Macintosh, and MP Tom Harris say about why the party lost the Holyrood election and their ideas for the future.

They spoke to the Record as 300,000 ballot papers go out. Hustings across the country start tonight in Edinburgh. The result will be announced on December 17.

TOM HARRIS

What went wrong?

It would take me less time to say what didn't go wrong. There is no doubt that in a straight comparison between Iain Gray and Alex Salmond, we were found wanting. There was that and the fact we have not been saying anything relevant to the Scottish people.

What new policies should Labour consider?

We need to head to a system where we have full-time childcare for people who work. I'm also a great supporter of the Glasgow Airport Rail Link and I was devastated when that was dumped by the SNP. I want to resurrect the GARL.

How would you lead the fight against the SNP as a Westminster MP?

It's going to be bloody difficult for whoever wins this election, no question. I recognise there is some scepticism in the party, particularly from MSPs, about having an MP do this job. Let me tell you that's not the view of Scottish people in general. They just want the best person doing it.

Is Alex Salmond's proposed multi-choice referendum on independence and more Holyrood powers fair?

There should be one question. The Scottish people have a right to expect a very straightforward question in the very near future.

JOHANN LAMONT

What went wrong?

We lost our way, lost our voice and lost Scotland. People didn't believe us.

And what has to change for Scottish Labour?

We need to re-engage and talk to people. We have to be very clear the Scottish Labour Party stands up for the people of Scotland first and foremost and that's our priority.

What new policies should Labour consider?

The priority for any Labour leader has to be jobs, the economy and in particular youth unemployment. We should have a fund which would co-fund small businesses to take on somebody for six months. I would also do all in my power to reverse the decision by the SNP to slash college funding.

How would you take on Alex Salmond?

I've taught fifth-year Christmas leavers last thing on a Friday afternoon. Basically, if you can face that you can face anything.

Is Alex Salmond's proposed multi-choice referendum on independence and more Holyrood powers fair?

There should be a single question. Do you want to stay in the UK or do you want to leave? Yes or no. It ought not to be muddied in any way, shape or form.

KEN MACINTOSH

What went wrong for Labour last May?

We were portrayed as too negative. People knew we were against the Tories, they knew we were against separatism. But the trouble is, the message of being anti-SNP isn't by itself a good enough message.

What new policies should Labour consider?

I don't think we get enough economic return from the SNP's £131million small business bonus scheme. It should be targeted at firms who take on young new employees. This could be one of the boldest steps we take in Scotland - 20,000 jobs could be created.

As the only candidate never to have served as a minister, do you have the experience for the top job?

Yes. I'd just point out that Alex Salmond had not held ministerial office until he became First Minister.

Is Alex Salmond's proposed multi-choice referendum on independence and more Holyrood powers fair?

It should be a very straightforward question for the Scottish people: Do you want to be a separate country or not?